Simplicity, Outdoors Draws Physician to Hermiston

Dr. Jennifer Poste was attracted to Hermiston because of the lure of a simple lifestyle and the great outdoors.PHOTO COURTESY OF GSHCS

Hermiston has been described by some as an oasis in the high desert, and for Jennifer Poste, internal medicine and endocrinology physician, that is exactly what her family was looking for.

“After spending eight years in and around New York City, my husband and I (General Surgeon Dr. Todd Jones) were looking for a simpler kind of living and really wanted to be surrounded by the great outdoors,” said Poste. “Both of us being West Coast natives knew that eventually, we’d return. So we began our search in Oregon and Washington and visited several places in each state. We really felt at home in Hermiston from the moment we first spoke with physician recruiter Trixie Ortiz at Good Shepherd Health Care System (GSHCS). In fact, the whole team at GSHCS, from administration, physicians, and front line staff were so welcoming that we felt immediately at home.

So, what exactly does an internal medicine and endocrinologist doctor do?

“As an internist, I am able to diagnose and care for adults with general medical conditions from the flu to more complex chronic disease management which includes, diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, heart conditions – to name a few,” she said. “What really motivates me as an internist is being able to help prevent and recognize the initial onset of diseases by working with my patient to control the condition or diseases risk factors such as an elevated blood pressure and cholesterol.

“As an endocrinologist, I care for conditions that affect the thyroid and glandular issues which include adrenals and pituitary. I also focus on providing care for patients with diabetes through diabetes management, and metabolism issues.”

Though there are many primary care options available in Umatilla and Morrow counties, a recent joint study conducted by The Hospital Council of Northwest Ohio, made possible by a consortium of community organizations including GSHCS, The Community Health Needs Assesment (CHNA), states that Umatilla and Morrow counties combined discovered 13 percent of adults in our region have diabetes, which is 3 percent higher than the Oregon state average and 2 percent than the national average. Of those with diabetes, 29 percent are over the age of 65. The CHNA also points out that 36 percent of Umatilla and Morrow county residents are obese – which is a contributing factor to diabetes, hence the need for more specialized services in the community. To read the full 2015-2016 report visit the Good Shepherd website.

“I am a believer in preventative management – finding something early can slow down, stall and even reverse the progression of some diseases,” Poste said. “As a patient, I’m your biggest fan and want you to be successful. I’m truly looking forward to building lasting relationships with my patients.”

While not in the office you may see Poste around town, exercising, exploring the great outdoors, and spending time with her family and friends.

Poste is part of the Good Shepherd Medical Group Internal Medicine and Endocrinology office located at 600 NW 11th Street, Suite E-37 in Hermiston. Dr. Poste is w

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